California Diaries Day 5: December 24th

Now it has to be said, my carefully sculpted list of “if I could live anywhere in the world” places is being blown out of all proportion by the day (well, actually by the minute). Moving on from Napa and driving to Palo Alto in the Portola Valley meant that today was to be one of those “transition” days that are really best left for the flight home.

Despite the forecasted predictions being rain there was no way something as trivial as the weather was going to dampen the spirits with roads like this on offer. I’d been told that Alpine Road up to Skyline Boulevard is one of the most beautiful in the world. Sometimes this can lead to higher expectations and disappointment, however in this instance it’s an absolute fact. No messing. Climbing through ancient Redwood trees on narrow twisting roads to begin with, before emerging into the open with sensational views of the surrounding mountain range and valley far below. Clean air, no cars, no stress. It’s a simple but effective formula to find serenity.

Definition:

Serenity, pronounced [suh-ren-i-tee]
–noun

1) the state or quality of being serene, calm, or tranquil; sereneness
2) Alpine Road, Portola Valley, California

Crossing over Skyline to hit the descent on Page Mill Road was the icing on the Christmas cake without question. Flowing and technical, on the edge of the Palo Alto Foothills Park, if you’re not laughing out loud with joy by mid way down you should consider taking up another sport. Fact.

A bold statement maybe, but I seriously challenge anyone to find a more beautiful 37 mile route in the world. To have this on your doorstep day-in day-out would be unimaginable. Fortunately we’ve got a couple of days in the area now to ride, ride and ride some more.

What a Christmas gift.

Enough said.

Ride stats: 1,400m elevation/37miles

For Day 5 GPS info click here